Arctic Circle Artist Residency
Donation protected
Hi!
My name is Sarah Nelson and I am a visual artist.
A few years ago I was offered a solo exhibition by Jessica Turtle with the Natural Heritage Project.
It was a show that was meant to shine a light on the endangered species that exist in
Minnesota and Wisconsin. That show changed my life.
The research I did in preparation opened my eyes and shifted the focus of my art dramatically. Ever since then, my work has focused on the natural world,
ecosystems, climate vulnerability, and the beauty of the planet we inhabit.
In my work, I try to highlight the precious and beautiful qualities of the natural world and encourage curiosity.
I create art because I believe it has the ability to bridge gaps and start conversations that lead to growth and change.
My dream is that I will be able to travel to fragile environments, so that I can capture and communicate the realities of these (sacred/precious) places.
This work- this dream- it is what I feel deep down in my core...
This is the work I am meant to do.
Now, this dream is starting to come true.
Last week I found out that I have been accepted into an international artist residency in the Arctic Circle, in June of 2020!
I will be part of a team of 28 scientists and artists, doing collaborative research and personal work on a Barquentine vessel in the Arctic Ocean for three weeks.
Everyone on board has a passion for the environment, and is deeply concerned with the way our planet is changing.
The vision for this residency is that, by working together, artists and scientists can help translate the conditions of this vulnerable environment to the rest of the world.
It will be a truly transformative expedition.
The Arctic is one of the most fragile environments on our planet.
It is rapidly changing and the effects are visible.
During my expedition, animals will be migrating to the region and vegetation will start to bloom.
There will be 24 hours of daylight, and we will have the opportunity to go on guided expeditions to various research stations, glaciers, and islands to study and work.
Being chosen for this expedition is an enormous honor.
Hundreds of applicants from all around the world seek to win a spot on this voyage, and each year only 28 make it.
This trip is heavily subsidized, but not free.
So, in order to make it possible, I am humbly asking for your help.
I am inviting you to consider making this trip possible through the gift of financial support.
I have made a detailed list of all costs and expenses, and need to raise a total of $12,200.
By supporting this trip, you are making a dream possible, and empowering me to do the work that I believe I am meant to do.
Thank you for your support, and thank you for allowing me to live out my hope of seeing, documenting, and protecting the beautiful, fragile world we live in.
THE BREAK DOWN:
Flights: to Longyearbyen and back: $1,200
+ luggage fees, travel insurance, and taxes: $300 (for both ways)
Gear specifically recommended by the Arctic Circle:
Arctic boots: $135
Long Underwear (2 pair): $80
Wool Sweater: $50
snow pants: $170
Wool socks: $50
Specific arctic exploration coat: $209
Art Supplies & Gear:
Camera: $1,800
Paper: $70
Pens: $40
Viles : $20
Protective cases for paper: $60
= $4184
SUBSIDIZED COST OF PROGRAM: $6,600
Total of: $10,784
Organizer
Sarah Nelson
Organizer
Los Angeles, CA